During the last few years I've attended quite a few events sponsored by APPJAG (All Party Parliamentary Jazz Appreciation Group) and PPL at the House of Commons. They are always hugely enjoyable occasions but this latest was extra special.

In recent times, there's been much loose talk in some quarters of jazz being a dying art. However, on the evidence of this performance by NYJC on a cold mid-winter's night in the heart of London, these prophets of doom are way off the mark. Jazz, and the spirit of jazz will never die. Folk like these young musicians and their inspirational director, Issie Barratt, will ensure that, come hell or high water, jazz will always be with us.

These eleven jazz musicians excelled themselves throughout the whole performance, playing (and singing in the case of Ella) with skill and enthusiasm, and with a maturity way beyond their years. They don't take the easy route either. There are many older musicians who are very content to rest on their laurels. Going through the motions, cruising on auto pilot, they believe the same old same old is a desirable thing. It ain't. From beginning to end, the young people improvised boldly and confidently, and with an unerring sense of purpose. Their compositions were bold and vibrant too. Of the nine numbers, five were penned by Issie's students, the remaining items pieces by Dave Holland ("Pass it On"), Charlie Haden ("Sandino") and Horace Silver ("Nica's Dream"). Sadly, Haden and Silver have recently left this mortal coil for the big jazz orchestra in the sky. It is great that the young people are being made aware of the legacy of these legends of jazz, ensuring that their music will never be forgotten.

The gig started off with a bang with "Time Flies Past Tired Eyes"by bassist Daisy George. Jazz doesn't always have to be in 4/4 - maybe a lesson for the moldy fig brigade? Just when we thought "ah, this tune is in 7", an extra beat is thrown in, but before long we're into a slower groove in 4. Daisy has clearly learnt the importance of change, contrast and surprise. There is nothing more tiresome to the listener than knowing the next step in the unfolding musical narrative. Metamorphosis, variety and unpredictability are found in spades in the work of Issie Barratt and it is wonderful to see Issie's qualities rubbing off on her students.

All of the original compositions had a wonderful sense of balance and structure and it is invidious to single any one out in particular. Variety is so important in presenting a programme and it was great to hear so many varied grooves throughout: a lovely, lyrical waltz (Asha Parkinson's "Battle Orphan"), the sunny Latin feel of StephanieWills' "July", the infectious swing of Alex Ridout's "Alex's composition" and the uber funky "It's You" penned by Alexander Bone, winner of the 2014 BBC Young Musician of the Year's Jazz Award ( I wasn't surprised to learn that three of Issie's students had reached the final ). This featured some breathtaking Sandbornish alto soloing from the composer followed by an exciting duet with the soprano of Tom Smith. Dave Holland took up bass duties in the second half, his mighty groove playing of his "Pass it On" inspiring the young musicians to scale the heights. This reminded us that we all have a duty to pass on our knowledge and love of jazz to future generations of musicians.

"Nica's Dream" was supposed to be the last number but the baying audience of distinguished musicians, promoters, journalists and supporters demanded more and so a medium swinging blues was served up.

I left Portcullis House intoxicated with fine wine, good grub, excellent company and, most importantly of all, youthful and exuberant music ringing in my ears.

Reviewed by Geoff Eales - January 27th 2015

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